A direct approach for continuous topology optimization subject to admissible loading

In the present paper, a method is proposed for topology optimization of continuum structures subject to static and plastic admissibility conditions relative to a prescribed load. A key feature of the method is that, using a finite-element discretization, the form of the resulting topology optimization problem is similar to that of the direct static approach of the limit analysis problem. The proposed method is formulated in plane strain using Tresca materials and is illustrated on example problems taken from the literature.